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Drunk driving defense is a specialized area. Let one of the qualified DUI LAWS attorneys find a solution to your legal problem if you, or someone you care about, has been arrested for DUI or DWI. Contact a Washington DUI LAWS lawyer near you for a free consultation by calling 1.800.DUI.LAWS.
Washington drunk driving cases are most commonly
referred to as DUI or driving under the influence and sometimes DWI – Driving While Intoxicated.
Washington does have a "per se" law, meaning
that you may be convicted of a DUI in Washington if
you drive with an alcohol level of .08 or greater.
If someone is arrested for drunk driving, DUI or DWI, refusal
to take a chemical test can be used against them in
court, and also result in harsher penalties in court
and with their driving privilege.
The washout period for prior drunk driving
convictions is 7 years.
 NOTE: The Seattle Municipal Court has special rules, and demands special attention:
The Seattle Municipal Court one of the busiest
courts in Washington, and has many unique policies and
procedures related to DUI arrests. It is extremely important to retain a qualified Washington DUI defense lawyer who is familiar with the prosecutors and local
practices. To find a local drunk driving defense lawyer, choose your county from
either the county map at the top right of this page or
form the county drop-down at the top left of this
page.
- IMMEDIATE APPEARANCE
Most courts take up to a month or more to file your
case; not Seattle. If you are arrested for a DUI in
Seattle, you will be required to appear in Court
within 48 hours of the next business day.
- FIRST APPEARANCE PRETRIAL RELEASE POLICIES -
BAIL
In most courthouses, the prosecutors do not seek to
increase bail at the first court appearance.
However, Seattle prosecutors usually request
substantial bail and pretrial release conditions on
ALL DUI cases, which can include such things as
attending AA classes, the immediate installation of ignition interlock devices, and abstinence from all
alcohol.
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Oftentimes, those (alleged DUI offenders) who appear unrepresented find
themselves taken to jail immediately until they can
post bail. NO PERSONAL CHECKS OR CREDIT CARDS ARE
ACCEPTED TO PAY FOR YOUR BAIL. Instead, you'll have to
sit in jail until arrangements can be made. It is
critical that an experienced DUI / DWI lawyer represent you to
ensure your immediate release.
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Washington Arrest and Release
If someone you care about has been arrested in WA, please visit the Washington State Department of Corrections' Web Portal for more detailed information.
Other Washington Resources
There are a variety of
special problems that arise following a drunk driving, DUI, or DWI arrest in Washington. Renting a car may be difficult (although we know of several companies that will do so), as is getting car insurance. There may be a requirement to attend special alcohol programs, or AA meetings.
Expungement in Washington
Expungement of criminal records in Washington can be a complex process, and the ability to clean up past criminal convictions depends upon many different factors. The law relating to expunging criminal convictions varies from state to state. It is important that you consult with a lawyer that is skilled in matters pertaining to expungement.
For a free consultation, contact Seattle, Washington DUI defense attorney by calling toll-free, 1.800.DUI.LAWS.
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